Yurts in Minnesota: A Guide to the Best Yurt Camping Sites in the State
Looking for a unique way to experience the great outdoors in Minnesota? Look no further than glamping in a yurt! These spacious tents offer all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay, while still allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature.
Minnesota is quickly becoming a popular destination for glamping, with yurts being one of the most sought-after accommodations. Inspired by traditional Mongolian yurts, these tents offer plush bedding, private bathrooms, and even kitchens. Some are located within the state’s national parks, while others are situated beside scenic lakes. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family vacation, a yurt in Minnesota is the perfect place to stay.
Yawkey Mine Lake Yurts at Cuyuna State Recreation Area
Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area offers three Yurts located on the west side of Yawkey Mine Lake. These Yurts are ride-in, ride-out and can accommodate up to seven people each. They are available year-round, so visitors can enjoy the mountain bike trails in all seasons.
The Yurts at Yawkey Mine Lake are equipped with basic amenities, including a wood stove, table, chairs, and bunk beds. Visitors need to bring their own bedding, cookware, and utensils. There is a vault toilet and potable water source nearby.
The Yurts are located near the mountain bike trails, which offer over 30 miles of single-track trails for all skill levels. The trails are groomed in the winter for fat tire biking, making Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
The Yurts at Yawkey Mine Lake can be reserved up to one year in advance. The cost is $80 per night, with a two-night minimum stay required on weekends and holidays. Visitors can make reservations online or by phone.
Overall, the Yurts at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area offer a unique camping experience with easy access to outdoor activities, making it a great destination for families, groups, and individuals looking to explore the great outdoors in Minnesota.
Yurt at Afton State Park
Afton State Park is a beautiful park nestled along the St. Croix River in Hastings, Minnesota. With over 20 miles of hiking trails throughout the park, it offers scenic views of the river, lush woodlands, and scenic bluffs. The park is popular for cycling, birdwatching, picnics, and camping.
For those who want to enjoy all the recreational activities the park offers, they can spend the night at the park and sleep in one of the beautiful yurts. Afton State Park offers two yurts that can sleep a maximum of seven persons, making it well-suited for families or groups of friends.
The yurts at Afton State Park offer an off-grid camping experience. They don’t have any bedding, so visitors may need to bring their own. Also, there is no access to electricity. However, visitors can cook their meals on a fire pit. In the evening, visitors can gather around the fire pit for s’mores and share fun stories.
The price for a yurt at Afton State Park starts at $59 per night. Visitors can make reservations online or by phone through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
Overall, camping in a yurt at Afton State Park is a unique and memorable experience that visitors will surely enjoy. With its scenic views and many activities, it’s a great way to spend time with family and friends while enjoying the great outdoors.
Glendalough State Park
Glendalough State Park, located in Otter Tail County, Minnesota, is a beautiful park named after a glacial valley in Iceland. The park offers 30 acres of breathtaking lake vistas and is home to some of Minnesota’s most stunning camping sites. Visitors have plenty of options for accommodation at Glendalough State Park, including 22 campsites, three canoe campsites, one group campsite, four camper cabins, and two yurts.
The yurts at Glendalough State Park offer a unique and primitive camping experience. Like a traditional yurt, the yurts at Glendalough feature wood lattice-framed structures with heavy-duty fabric and insulated liners. These yurts also come with windows, domed roofs, and wooden floors. Each yurt has bunk beds, wood-burning stove, and a table and chairs. Outside, visitors have access to a picnic table, firing, and vault toilets.
The two yurts at Glendalough State Park are located in a secluded area of Annie Battle Lake, with no vehicle access. Visitors can get there on a hike, bike, or canoe. One yurt at Glendalough State Park is 16 feet in diameter and sleeps three people, while the other yurt is 20 feet in diameter and sleeps seven people.
Glendalough State Park is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy Minnesota’s natural beauty. Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, biking, wildlife observation, heritage fishing, large panfish, canoeing on Chain of Lakes, and swimming on the sandy beach.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique camping experience | Secluded location |
| Breathtaking lake vistas | No vehicle access |
| Wood-burning stove | Limited space |
| Access to picnic table and firing | Vault toilets |
Overall, Glendalough State Park is an excellent camping destination for those who want to enjoy Minnesota’s natural beauty and have a unique and primitive camping experience.
Yurt Escape at White Wilderness
White Wilderness is a popular destination for those who want to experience the thrill of dog sledding and the coziness of a yurt. The Premier Yurt Escape package is a 1 ½ day mushing adventure that includes a one-night stay in a traditional-style yurt. The package is designed for two participants who share a team, driving, and riding. Solo sled trips are also available upon request.
The Premier Yurt Escape is ideal for those who live within a six-hour drive of Ely, MN. The package costs $1295 per person, and the minimum age for participants is 14. The adventure includes exploring forest trails and frozen lakes by dog team, making it a short but active getaway.
For those who want to immerse themselves in the mushing world, the Premier Yurt Trip is a three-day adventure that allows participants to drive their own dogsled. The trip takes place in the Superior National Forest, and seasoned guides provide instructions to safely navigate the snowy trails.
White Wilderness is also home to other yurt options for those who want a glamping getaway. The Cuyuna State Recreation Area is one of Minnesota’s most beautiful state parks and a popular spot for camping. It offers some of the best yurts in Minnesota, and visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings and beautiful views.
For those who want a more luxurious yurt experience, the Yurt with a Garden is a great option. The yurt sits in a serene spot surrounded by nature and features beautiful views. A workspace is provided in the rental, guaranteeing productivity in a quiet environment. Visitors can step out onto the private patio and enjoy the views whenever they want.
Overall, White Wilderness is a great destination for those who want to experience the beauty of Minnesota while enjoying the comfort of a yurt. Whether you want a short, active getaway or a more immersive experience, there is a yurt package that will suit your needs.
Wildhaven Yurt Glamping
Wildhaven is a hand-built yurt located in Two Harbors, Minnesota, offering a unique glamping experience for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The yurt is surrounded by towering pine and aspen trees, providing unmatched privacy and quiet.
The yurt can accommodate up to four people and features two beds, a private bath, and modern amenities such as Wi-Fi. Guests can relax and rejuvenate in the serene surroundings, reconnecting with nature and enjoying the peace and quiet.
There are plenty of nearby sites to explore, such as the Split Rock Lighthouse, Gooseberry Falls, and Two Harbors Lighthouse. Hiking enthusiasts can hike along the Superior Hiking Trail and the Gitchi-Gami State Trail.
After a day of adventure, guests can unwind at the sauna and gather around a fire to share stories. Prices start at $205 per night, making Wildhaven an affordable and unique glamping experience.
Eagle Yurt at Wilderness Wind
Nestled in Ely, Minnesota, the Eagle Yurt at Wilderness Wind is a charming accommodation option for those seeking a comfortable stay in the woods. The yurt boasts two queen-sized beds, a living area with two couches, and a deck with a seating and dining area. It is also insulated, ensuring a cozy stay even during cold weather.
The yurt can accommodate up to six guests, making it perfect for families or small groups. Guests will have access to kayaks, canoes, and life jackets, allowing them to explore the nearby lakes. The property also has a library where guests can learn about the history of the area.
For those who want to explore the nearby attractions, the property can organize day trips. With its peaceful location and comfortable amenities, the Eagle Yurt at Wilderness Wind is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature. Prices start at $175 per night.
Pincushion Mountain Haus + Yurt
Located in Grand Marais, Minnesota, Pincushion Mountain Haus is a beautiful Scandinavian modern vacation rental that overlooks Grand Marais and Lake Superior. This rental offers four bedrooms that can sleep up to ten people, making it perfect for families or groups of friends looking to spend some quality time together.
In addition to the main house, Pincushion Mountain Haus also offers access to a fun yurt. Tucked into the woods and offering utmost privacy, the Pincushion Mountain Haus Yurt can sleep a maximum of two guests, making it perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway in nature. The yurt features two cozy beds, a small table, and chairs for dining. There’s also a clean and classy outhouse for guests to use.
For those who love adventure, there are well-maintained hiking trails nearby that take you to the Little Devil’s Track River. Along the way, you will find benches to rest and take in the views. The town of Grand Marais is only a five-minute drive away, where guests can find some great restaurants.
Overall, Pincushion Mountain Haus and Yurt offer a unique and memorable vacation experience for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature.
Cozy Nest Yurt
Located in Grand Marais, Minnesota, the Cozy Nest Yurt is a fully furnished yurt that offers the perfect setting for a cozy getaway for all seasons, especially during winter. This yurt is available for rent on Airbnb for $95+ per night.
The yurt has two beds and a half-bath, which can accommodate up to four guests. There is a short path leading to Gunflint Lake, where guests can enjoy fun activities and get access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, one of the largest wilderness reserves in America.
At night, guests can marvel at the bright lights of the Milky Way and even the Northern Lights on some winter nights! Nestled amidst the birch and white pine forest, Cozy Nest Yurt offers everything guests need for an unplugged getaway in the wild.
Here are some key features of the Cozy Nest Yurt:
- Fully furnished yurt
- Accommodates up to four guests
- Short path leading to Gunflint Lake
- Access to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
- Perfect for a cozy getaway for all seasons, especially during winter
- Beautiful views of the Milky Way and Northern Lights on some winter nights
Overall, the Cozy Nest Yurt is a great option for those looking for a unique and cozy getaway in the heart of the Minnesota wilderness.
Yurt-Style Tent at Stone Creek Farm
Stone Creek Farm in Shafer, Minnesota, offers a unique camping experience with their yurt-style tent. The farm sits on 36 acres of land, providing a peaceful and scenic environment for campers. The yurt-style tent is fully equipped with everything you need for camping in the woods, including a picnic table, BBQ facilities, a fire pit, and a self-composting toilet. Camp carts are also available to transport your gear to the campsite.
Water can be fetched from the hose by the high tunnel, which is just a quarter-mile walk from the campsite. The farm grows stone fruits like peaches, plums, cherries, and apricots through sustainable and organic practices. The farm owners are happy to show campers around and invite them to participate in planting and harvesting on the farm.
In addition to camping, Stone Creek Farm also offers farm-to-table cooking classes. This is a great opportunity for campers to learn about sustainable and organic practices while enjoying delicious food. Overall, Stone Creek Farm offers a unique camping experience that combines the beauty of nature with sustainable farming practices.
Yurt By the River
Located in Saginaw, Minnesota, this beautiful yurt is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway in nature. The yurt sits on the edge of a forest overlooking a clearing restoration project along the banks of the Cloquet River. It offers an off-grid camping experience, with no electricity or running water, but has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
The yurt is heated by a wood stove and outfitted with solar lights, batteries, and candle camp lanterns. You can request a rapid phone charger if needed. Drinking and washing water are provided, and you can refill them on-site. There is also an outfitted camp kitchen where you can prepare your meals.
For those visiting in winter, two sets of snowshoes are provided. In summer, fall, and spring, kayaks and inner tubes are available for floating on the river. There is an outhouse a short walk from the yurt and firewood storage.
At $120+ per night, this yurt offers a unique and affordable way to experience the beauty of Minnesota’s natural surroundings.
Hemlock Yurt
The Hemlock Yurt is a cozy and intimate yurt located in Esko, Minnesota, just 20 minutes outside of Duluth along the border of Jay Cooke State Park. It is a perfect getaway for couples looking for peace and tranquility in a serene environment. The yurt has a comfortable bed that can sleep two guests, making it ideal for couples.
Apart from the bed, the yurt has a lounge area with a fireplace, providing a perfect place to relax and cozy up during cold winter nights. It also has a small solar power system and a shared portable potty about 100 yards from the site. Guests will need to walk a short distance from the parking area, but a small cart is provided to carry their belongings to the yurt.
Overall, the Hemlock Yurt is a great place for couples to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature.
Secluded Yurt-Style Tent
Located in Shafer, Minnesota, this yurt-style tent is the perfect place to camp in seclusion while surrounded by nature. Situated on a working farm about two miles from Taylors Falls, this camping site offers access to a composting toilet, fire pit, BBQ grill, and picnic table. The price starts at $45 per night.
One of the unique aspects of staying in this yurt is the opportunity to experience hands-on farming. The farm grows fruits such as peaches, plums, cherries, and apricots. This would be an ideal place for anyone passionate about farming and wanting to learn more about it while enjoying a glamping experience in Minnesota.
The yurt-style tent is spacious and comfortable, with enough room to accommodate up to four guests. It features a queen-size bed and a futon, making it perfect for a small family or group of friends. The tent also has a small kitchenette with a sink, mini-fridge, and a few basic kitchen supplies.
Overall, this yurt-style tent offers a unique and secluded glamping experience in Minnesota, with the added bonus of hands-on farming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities can renters expect when renting a yurt in Minnesota?
Yurts in Minnesota come with a variety of amenities, depending on the location. Most yurts are equipped with basic furniture, including bunk beds, futons, and tables. Some yurts also have heat sources, such as wood stoves, propane heaters, or electric heaters. Visitors can expect to find electrical outlets, lighting, and windows in most yurts. However, renters should bring their own bedding, cooking supplies, and toiletries.
How do yurts in Minnesota accommodate winter weather?
Minnesota winters can be harsh, but yurts are designed to withstand the elements. Yurts are typically insulated and have a circular shape that allows for better heat distribution. Some yurts also have wood stoves or propane heaters for added warmth. Renters should bring warm clothing, sleeping bags, and blankets to stay comfortable during the winter months.
Where can renters find luxury yurt accommodations in Minnesota?
Several luxury yurt accommodations can be found in Minnesota, including the Nomad Ridge at Blue Mounds State Park and the Yurt Village at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. These yurts offer amenities such as private bathrooms, kitchens, and air conditioning. They also have larger living spaces and more comfortable furniture.
Which state parks in Minnesota offer yurt rentals?
Several state parks in Minnesota offer yurt rentals, including:
- Afton State Park
- Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area
- Glendalough State Park
- Lake Maria State Park
- Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
- Sakatah Lake State Park
Each park has its own unique yurt accommodations and amenities.
Can renters purchase a yurt in Minnesota, and what should they consider?
Yurts can be purchased in Minnesota from a variety of manufacturers. When considering purchasing a yurt, renters should consider factors such as size, insulation, and materials. They should also consider the intended use of the yurt, whether it will be used for year-round living or seasonal camping.
What distinguishes yurts from teepees in terms of structure and usage?
Yurts and teepees are both circular structures used for shelter, but they have several key differences. Yurts have a wooden frame covered with a canvas or vinyl cover, while teepees have a wooden frame covered with animal hides. Yurts are typically more insulated and can be used year-round, while teepees are better suited for warmer weather. Yurts also have a central skylight for natural lighting, while teepees have a smoke hole at the top for ventilation.
